The American Graded Stakes committee has raised the minimum purse amounts necessary for a race to be considered for graded status. From now on any graded race must have a minimum purse of $100,000, with specifics listed below:

- Grade I, $200,000 - Grade II, $150,000 - Grade III, $100,000

The new requirements take effect with the 2003 racing season.

The previous minimum amounts were $125,000, $100,000, and $75,000, for grade I, II, and III, respectively. Any race upgraded for the 2002 season which does not meet the purse requirements of its new grade will be given one year to meet the minimums. The minimums may include Breeders' Cup supplements, but do not include state-bred supplements.